By Sabi Datoo-Lalji, Creative Consultant and Writer at Sabidatoolalji.com

During these unprecedented times, the one question I keep asking myself is, “how do I support small businesses, give back and stay calm?” (Will talk about the latter at a later date.) There are a plethora of industries that are in the midst of turmoil right now, and the fashion industry is no different. Between garment workers, and retail staff, to the business owners themselves, it is an extremely confusing and tumultuous time to be selling anything. Being a consultant to small businesses myself, I can see first hand just how tricky it is to navigate the retail landscape, support teams and redefine what it means to, well, sell goods.

There are a handful of brands that have been conscious about helping with COVID-19 relief efforts. These companies are using their resources to help local communities, donate a portion of their sales to charities and do whatever is in their power to give a little back. Whether you’re in the market to treat yourself or send a gift to a loved one, here are the five brands endeavoring to help heal the world.

Stoney Clover Lane

@stoneyclover

If there ever was a brand that would make my eyes dance, it’s Stoney Clover Lane. From their candy-colored bags to the delicious sorbet hued travel accessories, it is no wonder that they are fast becoming the go-to organization label. During this pandemic, they have chosen to donate 10% of their online sales to Baby2Baby to aid their mission to provide emergency supplies to families in need.

Lidia May

@lidiamaybags

Lidia May has been on my radar for a while. From their support for artisans in Dhaka to their messaging and communication, this is one accessories brand that is revolutionizing responsible production while offering beautifully constructed bags. During this pandemic, the brand has helped spread clear facts and advice on hygiene care, hold talks and demonstrations and guaranteed income for their workers so they are well equipped to feed their families during a lockdown.

Mariam Al Sibai

@mariamalsibai

A ready-to-wear brand like no other, Mariam Al Sibai is one to watch. I could write an essay on her first-ever outerwear range, but I will stick to the script because dare I say it, it brought a tear to my eye. Not only is the brand pledging $100 from every online order to buy N95 masks, but the founder herself has also launched a separate gofundme page where she is collecting donations to fund the production of FDA-approved PPE equipment, which will be delivered directly to the over-run hospitals in New York and New Jersey.

Alejandra Alonso Rojas

@alejandraalonsorojas

Alejandra Alonso Rojas has reinvented what it means to wear tailoring. Her silhouettes are inspired by the women who raised her — they’re strong, structured and everlasting. Not only is her brand a breath of fresh air in any wardrobe, but her mission to donate 30% off all sales to God’s Love We Deliver and No Kid Hungry, makes me love her even more.

Chloe Gossel

@chloegosselin

A footwear brand that mixes French cool with Italian craftsmanship, Chloe Gossel is helping us put a stylish foot forward one stunning shoe at a time. The luxury shoe label brings forth her love for art, music, and design in all of her offerings and is donating 30% of all online sales to aid No Kid Hungry and WC Kitchen in their Coronavirus relief efforts.

The Groovy List is a weekly newsletter dedicated to sharing stories that get us excited about humanity. Topics include: Art, Fashion, Design, Kindness, Spirituality, Health and Wellness and much more.